Relax, LG Ally owners: Froyo's coming your way

LG confirms Android-powered Ally, coming May 20th

Well, this hasn't exactly followed the usual smartphone launch route, but LG has now officially confirmed the existence of its new Android-powered LG Ally handset, although it's still not doing much talking about the phone itself. It has, however, revealed that the phone will be available on May 20th (presumably on Verizon, though LG oddly doesn't mention a carrier in its press release), and that it will naturally feature plenty of Iron Man 2 tie-in content, including an augmented reality application of some sort. Otherwise, LG is only saying that the phone will have a touchscreen and a full QWERTY keypad, and it's pointing folks towards an Iron Man 2 tie-in site (linked below) that, last we checked, still says to check back on April 30th. We should be getting some more details on the phone soon enough, however, as LG is holding an event in New York on May 11th where it will be showing off the Ally and other "Stark-worthy" technology.

SAN DIEGO, May 3 /PRNewswire/ -- LG Electronics MobileComm U.S.A., Inc. (LG Mobile Phones), in partnership with the upcoming summer blockbuster, Iron Man 2, from Marvel Studios, is launching a multi-platform marketing campaign that celebrates the film'stheme of heroism through technology and gadgets that push the limit. Proving that life is good when you're connected, LG will implement a comprehensive campaign focusing on how innovation can help bring people together and make everybody a Super Hero.

Kicking off the campaign's many initiatives will be Super Hero themed television commercials that showcase the superhuman capabilities of LG's first Android mobile phone, LG Ally. In-store gift-with-purchase promotions will allow consumers nationwide to receive a special edition Augmented Reality enabled Iron Man 2 comic book with the purchase of selected LG handsets. LG will also launch a movie-themed micro site, www.lgim2.com, which includes an engaging online film-themed game with built-in Augmented Reality experiences and text-to-win consumer sweepstakes. The company's Iron Man 2 marketing programs will also include special retail promotions at Best Buy for LG LED HDTVs and Blu-ray Disc players.

The campaign will culminate with an exclusive New York event that will celebrate the launch of LG Ally and will feature futuristic technology from the LG Design the Future Challenge. In addition, the event will allow attendees to interact with a variety of Augmented Reality experiences, as well as provide an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the Iron Man 2 film.

"LG and Marvel have come together once again to empower audiences with a thrilling account of technology and its endless possibilities," said Ehtisham Rabbani, corporate vice president, marketing and innovation, LG Mobile Phones (LG MobileComm USA Inc.). "Allowing LG to display its innovation expertise and most advanced devices, Iron Man 2 is the perfect fit for LG's sophisticated handsets and smart products."

With the world now aware of his dual life as the armored superhero Iron Man, billionaire inventor Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) faces pressure from the government, the press, and the public to share his technology with the military in Iron Man 2. Unwilling to let go of his invention, Stark, along with Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow), and James "Rhodey" Rhodes (Don Cheadle) at his side, must forge new alliances -- and confront powerful enemies. The film is directed by Jon Favreau and will debut in theaters nationwide on May 7.

Advertising Campaign

Challenging audiences to ask themselves, "Is it a lifesaver...a smartphone, or something better?" the LG Iron Man 2 advertising campaign brings the power of an LG Android device to life. Centered on five friends caught in the cross-hairs of battle between alien drones and Iron Man himself, each character must use their LG phones to find the right mobile applications to save themselves and capture a bit of glory along the way. Showcasing LG handset capabilities such as instant Internet access, music player portability, turn-by–turn navigation, photo and video sharing, and even the ability to make online purchases and restaurant reservations, each ad is a tribute to the endless possibilities of the LG Ally.

LG Micro Site

LG has developed a micro site that will give movie fans a much deeper and interactive experience than the usual movie tie-in website. In addition to information about LG Ally, site visitors can download Augmented Reality applications and enter a consumer sweepstakes with the chance to win tickets, phones and incredible LG prizes. There is also an online game, where fans can participate in exciting film-themed activities using the latest Augmented Reality technology. The site can be visited at www.lgim2.com.

Limited Edition Marvel Comic Book

A special edition Iron Man 2 comic book created by Marvel will be given away with the purchase of an LG Ally, LG Chocolate Touch and LG enV Touch mobile phone. The comic book will feature a variety of Augmented Reality experiences and will also provide consumers with text messaging short codes to access exclusive Iron Man 2 content.

Movie Promotion Program

Dovetailing with its "Something Better" brand marketing campaign LG Electronics will be implementing a comprehensive movie promotion program with Marvel, including TV advertising, in-store point-of-purchase materials, retailer circular ads, dealer sales incentives, and digital and mobile campaigns, from April 25 through May 22.

Consumers can text LGIM2 from their mobile phone to 95173 to receive exclusive Iron Man content, download the Augmented Reality application on their LG Ally phone and enter the sweepstakes for a chance to win the ultimate Iron Man 2 prize package:

LG Ally and 1 year FREE service contract2 tickets to the U.S. premiere of a Marvel movie55-inch class LG "Infinia" LED HDTV and LG Network Blu-ray Home Theater System

Additional elements of the movie promotion program are special Iron Man 2 consumer electronics promotions with Best Buy. From April 25 through May 8, Best Buy shoppers can purchase a specially priced package consisting of LG's LE5400 LED HDTV and BD570 Blu-ray Disc player. Starting on May 9 and running through May 22, Best Buy also will offer a similar LG Iron Man 2 package which bundles together the LE5400 and LG's Network Blu-ray Home Theater LHB335.

Consumers interested in learning more about the Best Buy product bundles can visit www.lgironman.com. LG and Best Buy also are supporting the co-branded promotion with a broadcast, online and mobile advertising campaign on ABC networks.

LG's Android "Ally"

LG Ally is the first Android device to boast an Augmented Reality application -- currently exclusive to LG. Consumers who purchase LG Ally can download the Augmented Reality app, featuring exclusive Iron Man 2 content, at www.lgim2.com or by texting 95173 from their mobile phone. Present throughout Iron Man 2, LG Ally allows users to explore and experience Augmented Reality through built-in applications and software. A touch screen handset featuring a full slide out QWERTY keyboard, the Ally is the ultimate complement for technology enthusiasts who, like Tony Stark, expect nothing but the best. LG Ally will be available May 20.

Exclusive Iron Man 2 Event

Showcasing its most "Stark-worthy" technology and reinforcing its innovative heritage, LG will host an event in New York on May 11 that will engage movie fans and gadget gurus alike. The event will boast a variety of Augmented Reality experiences as well as give attendees a hands-on look at the LG Ally. The event will also feature three futuristic concept phones from the LG Design the Future Challenge. This year's competition marks the inaugural participation of Russell Bobbitt, the prop master from Iron Man 2. Bobbitt served as a guest judge for the competition, awarding one contestant's cutting-edge design with the Prop Master's Choice award. The design that wins Prop Master's Choice will be created into a non-working mock-up and displayed at the event. The lucky contestant's design could even windup in Bobbitt's next blockbuster film.The world-renowned prop master will also be on hand at the event to showcase the ultramodern props from the film's set.

About LG Electronics, Inc.

LG Electronics, Inc. (KSE: 066570.KS) is a global leader and technology innovator in consumer electronics, mobile communications and home appliances, employing more than 84,000 people working in 115 operations including 84 subsidiaries around the world. With 2009 global sales of USD43.4 billion, LG is comprised of five business units –- Home Entertainment, Mobile Communications, Home Appliance, Air Conditioning and Business Solutions. LG is the world's leading producer of flat panel TVs, audio and video products, mobile handsets, air conditioners and washing machines. LG has signed a long-term agreement to become both a Global Partner and a Technology Partner of Formula One™. As part of this top-level association, LG acquires exclusive designations and marketing rights as the official consumer electronics, mobile phone and data processor of this global sporting event. For more information, please visit www.lgusa.com.

About LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company

The LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company is a leading global mobile communications and information company. With its cutting-edge technology and innovative design capabilities, LG creates handsets that provide an optimized mobile experience to customers around the world. LG is pursuing convergence technology and mobile computing products, while continuing its leadership role in mobile communication with stylish designs and smart technology. For more information, please visit www.lgmobilephones.com.

About LG Electronics USA

LG Electronics USA, Inc., based in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., is the North American subsidiary of LG Electronics, Inc., a global force and technology leader in consumer electronics, home appliances and mobile communications. In the United States, LG Electronics sells a range of stylish and innovative home entertainment products, mobile phones, home appliances and business solutions, all under LG's "Life's Good" marketing theme. For more information, please visit www.LG.com.